Following this event at the Ottawa District Office, Congressman Kinzinger released this statement:

“It takes a special kind of person to voluntarily step up to serve, protect, and defend. I’m incredibly proud to nominate these 16 incredible students from IL-16 this year as they take this step in advancing their education through servant leadership.

“As I told the nominees, the Military Service Academy application process is very competitive. I wish each one of them the best of luck in this process and in their future endeavors. I’m incredibly impressed with our next generation from IL-16 and encouraged for our future with these leaders in our community and country.”